10 Probiotic Foods That Improve Digestion, Increase Energy, Beat Depression & Heal Leaky Gut

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Probiotics are often referred to as “good bacteria” are live microorganisms that are linked to many health benefits. “Probiotics and prebiotics help maintain a healthy digestive system by controlling the growth of harmful bacteria and aiding in digestion.

Various probiotic strains have been shown to support the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, prevent inflammation, boost immunity and alleviate conditions ranging from allergies to diarrhea. Research shows that they can improve digestive health, boost the immune system, and possibly reduce the risk of cancer.

10 Probiotic Foods You Should Be Eating

Raw Cheese

Goat’s milk, sheep’s milk and A2 cows soft cheeses are particularly high in probiotics, including thermophillus, bifudus, bulgaricus and acidophilus. Always buy raw and unpasteurized cheeses if you want to receive any probiotics.

Kefir

Kefir has been proven to help ease lactose intolerance in some adults. High in lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria, kefir is also rich in antioxidants. Look for a good, organic version at your local health food store.

Sauerkraut

Made from fermented cabbage (and sometimes other vegetables), sauerkraut is not only extremely rich in healthy live cultures, but might also help with reducing allergy symptoms. Sauerkraut is also rich in vitamins B, A, E and C. Keep in mind, not all supermarket sauerkrauts will have beneficial bacteria.

Pickles

Believe it or not, the common green pickle is an excellent food source of probiotics. The less commercialized the better, but most pickles will have some microbial value.

Kimchi

Kimchi is an extremely spicy and sour fermented cabbage, typically served alongside meals in Korea. Besides beneficial bacteria, Kimchi is also a great source of beta-carotene, calcium, iron and vitamins A, C, B1 and B2. Kimchi is one of the best probiotic foods you can add to your diet, assuming you can handle the spice, of course.

Fermented Cheeses

Some cheeses, such as Gouda, cheddar, and Swiss, are made with lactic acid bacteria. While the probiotic content does vary, it can’t hurt to ask the person behind the counter at your local cheese shop to point you in the direction of a great Gouda.

Kombucha Tea

Kombucha has been around for over 2,000 years originating around Japan. Kombucha is a form of fermented tea that contains a high amount of healthy gut bacteria. This probiotic drink has been used for centuries and is believed to help increase your energy, enhance your well being and maybe even help you lose weight.

Tempeh

High up in the mountains of North Carolina lies the city of Asheville, one of the best places to sample fresh organic foods on the east coast of the United States. Packed full of protein, vitamins, and minerals; tempeh is a fermented soy product which offers many of the same benefits of tofu, but in greater quantity with far better flavor and texture.

Miso

A seasoning paste made from fermented soybeans, miso might deserve some credit for the famous longevity of the Japanese. Research suggests it may protect against cancers of the breast, colon, liver and lungs.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a highly nutritious dairy product made from fermented milk. Eating yogurt has been associated with many health benefits, including improved bone health. It is also beneficial for people with high blood pressure.

Sources:

1) http://www.mindbodygreen.com

2) http://www.eatingwell.com

3) http://www.globalhealingcenter.com

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